Salesforce Platform App Builder Exam Changes in 2025: What’s New & How to Prepare

The Salesforce Platform App Builder exam remains one of the most popular certifications for Salesforce developers, helping them validate their skills in designing, building, and deploying applications on the Salesforce platform. As Salesforce evolves, so do its certification exams to ensure they remain relevant to current technologies and industry practices. In 2025, there are significant updates to the Salesforce Platform App Builder exam, and understanding these changes is crucial for success.

This article covers the key changes to the exam format and content in 2025 and provides effective study strategies to help you prepare and excel.

Key Changes to the Salesforce Platform App Builder Exam in 2025

Updated Exam Format

Salesforce’s platform has evolved, and so has the App Builder exam format. In 2025, there are a few notable updates:

  • Number of Questions: The exam now includes 60 multiple-choice questions, down from the previous count of 65. This reduction means more focus on critical concepts per question.

  • Time Allotment: You’ll have 105 minutes to complete the exam, an adjustment from the previous 90-minute window, allowing a bit more time per question.

  • Question Types: The format has been refined to include more scenario-based questions, requiring deeper understanding and problem-solving abilities. Expect questions that test both conceptual knowledge and practical skills like troubleshooting issues in real-time situations.

New Topics Added

As Salesforce continues to add innovative features, certain topics are now included in the 2025 exam:

  • Salesforce Functions & Advanced Automation: With the rise of Salesforce Functions, the exam now includes a section focused on understanding how to use these functions to extend the platform’s capabilities.

  • AI and Einstein Analytics Integration: The new Salesforce AI capabilities, such as Einstein Analytics, are now essential knowledge for App Builders. You’ll need to understand how to incorporate these tools into apps and workflows.

  • Custom Metadata Types and Advanced Integration: Expect questions on the use of custom metadata and integrating Salesforce with other applications through APIs, something essential for modern enterprise apps.

 

Understanding the New Exam Content

Detailed Breakdown of Updated Topics

  1. App Development Lifecycle

           

    • In 2025, expect a shift in focus toward version control, deployment strategies, and the integration of CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) practices in Salesforce development. The exam now emphasizes toolchains for managing app life cycles in Salesforce.

  2. Advanced Automation & Process Builder

           

    • Salesforce's automation tools are continuously evolving. The exam tests your understanding of Advanced Flow capabilities, including how to design complex automation processes using Flow Builder, Process Builder, and Approval Processes. There is also a greater emphasis on Flow Orchestration to handle complex workflows.

  3. Salesforce Platform Integration

           

    • The exam covers modern integration strategies, focusing on Salesforce Connect, APIs, and tools like MuleSoft. App Builders must know how to integrate Salesforce apps with external systems effectively, including real-time data transfer and API best practices.

  4. Security & Data Model Updates

           

    • Security is a top concern in modern Salesforce development. The exam tests knowledge of OAuth authorization, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), field-level security, and sharing rules.

    • You will also need to know how to implement a dynamic data model based on the latest Salesforce object and field security guidelines.

 

How to Prepare for the Updated Salesforce Platform App Builder Exam

Study Materials and Resources

To tackle the new content, utilize a combination of resources:

  • Trailhead: Salesforce’s Trailhead platform offers updated learning paths designed specifically for the 2025 exam. Focus on modules like "Build Applications with Salesforce," "Automate Business Processes," and "App Customization."

  • Official Salesforce Study Guide: Salesforce releases a detailed study guide that outlines all the topics covered in the exam. Make sure to download and follow this, as it provides exact exam objectives.

  • Books and Video Tutorials: Many developers find books like "Salesforce Platform App Builder Certification Guide" helpful, along with video tutorials that break down complex topics into digestible segments.

Focus Areas Based on New Content

  • Advanced Automation: Master tools like Flow Builder, Process Builder, and Formula Fields.

  • Salesforce Functions: Get hands-on experience with Salesforce Functions and how they can be used to extend platform capabilities.

  • Integration Tools: Understand the nuances of API integration and how to integrate Salesforce with third-party applications.

Practice Tests and Exam Simulators

Utilizing practice tests is one of the best ways to prepare for the exam. These tests simulate real exam conditions, giving you an idea of the types of questions you’ll face. Several platforms offer Salesforce Platform App Builder practice tests Salesforce Platform App Builder practice tests, such as Study4Exam, which are designed specifically for Salesforce certifications.

Hands-On Experience

Nothing beats real experience when preparing for the exam. Create an org and practice building applications. Explore new Salesforce features, particularly those related to Salesforce Functions and Einstein Analytics. The more hands-on you get, the better prepared you will be.

Study Tips and Exam Strategies

  • Time Management: With an increased number of scenario-based questions, make sure to pace yourself. Don’t spend too much time on any one question.

  • Scenario-Based Questions: Focus on understanding the business context behind the question and how the platform’s tools can solve specific business problems.

 

Additional Considerations

Changes to Exam Retake Policies

While the exam itself has evolved, Salesforce has kept its retake policy relatively stable. If you fail, you’ll need to wait 24 hours before you can retake the exam, and if you fail a second time, you’ll need to wait 14 days.

Understanding the Exam’s Value

Earning the Salesforce Platform App Builder certification not only boosts your credibility as a Salesforce developer but also opens doors to more advanced Salesforce roles. With the 2025 updates, this certification aligns even more closely with the modern needs of enterprises looking for skilled developers to build powerful, automated solutions on the Salesforce platform.

 

Conclusion

Preparing for the updated Salesforce Platform App Builder exam in 2025 requires staying current with the latest platform features and updates. With the increased emphasis on low-code tools, advanced automation, and integration capabilities, the exam has evolved to match the latest trends in Salesforce development. By leveraging the right resources, focusing on hands-on experience, and mastering the updated topics, you can confidently tackle the exam and take your career to new heights.

Good luck with your preparation!